Evaluation Criteria for M.A. Thesis
I.

Appropriateness of research objectives/themes/title/subtitle/etc.
1.

Research objectives are clearly defined and the title reflects the contents of thesis.

2.

Research themes are in line with research objectives/contents and are original.

II. Appropriateness, adequacy, and originality of research questions, methods, analysis, andconclusion.
3.

Research questions are appropriate

4.

Research framework and methods are appropriate and effective, drawing upon theexisting literature.

5.

Research demonstrates originality and contribution to the field.

III. Appropriateness of the organization of thesis, consistency of arguments and conclusions
6.

Organizational structure is appropriate for the research objectives and logicallyconsistent.

7.

Concepts, theories, and special terminology are clearly defined and understood.

8.

Necessary materials, data, and literature are appropriately shown and analyzed.

9.

Conclusions are drawn from adequate evidence.

IV. Clarity and appropriateness of arguments and expressions
10. The main arguments are clear and easy to understand11. Expressions are appropriate and research objectives are easily understood.
V.

Appropriateness of format, citations, bibliography
12. Format is appropriate as an M.A. thesis, with adequate notes, citations, andreferences.

Evaluation Criteria for M.A. Policy PaperI.

Appropriateness of research objective, theme, title, etc.
1.

Research question is clearly defined and presented in such a way that would warrantinvestigation.

2.

Research theme is appropriately in line with the research objective and contents.

II. Appropriateness and originality of research question, methodology, conclusions, etc.
3.

Research question is clearly spelled out and original.

4.

Research methods adopted are appropriate in light of the research question.

5.

Conclusions being drawn is logically consistent and empirically grounded.

III. Appropriateness of the paper structure, consistency, and adequacy of the discussion,appropriateness of the conclusion.
6.

Structure of the policy paper is appropriate for the research objective, and it islogically consistent.

7.

Concepts, theory, and terminology are explained with sufficient understanding.

8.

Necessary materials, data, literature, etc., are appropriately indicated and analyzed.

9.

Conclusions are drawn with sufficient proof.

IV. Clarity/argument construction/appropriateness of textual expression, etc.
10. Main argument is easy to understand and the policy recommendations are laid out
appropriately.
11. Textual expression is appropriate and the intent of the dissertation is clear.
V.

Paper format, use of citations, indication of reference materials, etc.
12. Policy paper indicates notes, works cited, reference materials, etc., appropriately.

Examination Committee for M.A. thesis/policy paper
Dean of the graduate school will appoint at least two faculty members as thesis examiners.
The examiners will form an examination committee. In addition, the dean can appoint
individuals from other graduate schools within the university or from other universities to theexamination committee. In such a case, the dean must obtain permission from the university
president.
Requirements for Graduation
1. Enrollment in the program for more than 2 years, completion of at least 40 credits ofcourse work, passing of comprehensive examination, and successful completion of M.A.
thesis/policy paper (including oral defense).
2. Students with exceptional academic record may graduate in less than two years
Degree Conferred
Master of Arts in International Relations